Continuing Care Retirement Community
Independent Living · California
Independent Living in California
Compare 12 independent living communities across California — with real ratings, locations, and free help choosing the right fit.
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California at a glance
12
Independent Living communities
12+
cities covered
$3,500
median / month
100% Free
advisor service
12
Independent Living communities
12+
California cities & towns
$3,500
Median monthly cost
100% Free
No-cost advisor help
Overview
Independent Living in California
California has the largest number of senior living communities in the country, from the Bay Area and Los Angeles to San Diego, the Central Valley, and beyond. Assisted living averages around $5,500 a month statewide, though coastal metros run considerably higher and inland areas more affordable.
California licenses these communities as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE), ranging from small board-and-care homes to large communities. Below you can compare communities by city and get free help from a local advisor.
Costs
What independent living costs in California
Assisted living in California averages around $5,500 per month, with Bay Area and coastal metros running higher and inland regions more affordable.
What affects the price? Location and local demand, private vs. shared room, the level of daily care needed, and add-ons like medication administration or nighttime support.
Ways families pay
Private pay
California Medicaid
VA Aid & Attendance
Long-term care insurance
Browse
Independent Living communities in California
Browse communities in our California directory — call for current pricing and availability.
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing Care Retirement Community
By city
Independent Living by California city
Explore communities in California's cities and towns.
What independent living offers
Independent Living provides maintenance-free living with amenities and social opportunities for active, self-sufficient seniors.
- Help with daily activities & medication management
- Meals, housekeeping & laundry
- Trained staff and a safe, supportive environment
- Activities, wellness & social connection
California rules & paying for care
Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) in California are licensed and inspected by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division.
- California's Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, can cover care services in a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly through the Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) in participating counties; room and board is paid privately
- Veterans may apply VA Aid & Attendance toward costs
- Private pay, savings, and long-term care insurance are common
Questions
California independent living FAQs
What is an RCFE in California?
RCFE stands for Residential Care Facility for the Elderly — California's license category for assisted living and board-and-care homes. RCFEs range from small homes with a handful of residents to large communities, all licensed by the California Department of Social Services. Our advisors can help you compare them.
Does Medi-Cal pay for assisted living in California?
Medi-Cal's Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) can cover care services in a licensed RCFE for eligible seniors, but it operates in participating counties and often has waitlists. Room and board is paid privately. Our advisors can explain availability in your area.
Explore more
Other care types in California
Assisted Living in CaliforniaHelp with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, plus meals, housekeeping, and social life
Memory Care in CaliforniaSecured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or other dementia, with 24/7 supervision and trained staff
Nursing Homes in California24/7 skilled nursing and medical care for people with complex or chronic health needs
CCRCs in CaliforniaA full continuum of care — independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing — on one campus
Residential Care in CaliforniaSmall, home-like board-and-care homes offering personal care and supervision for a handful of residents
All California senior livingBrowse every community by city
Free help finding independent living in California
Our senior living advisors know California communities, pricing, and availability. Tell us what your family needs and we'll do the legwork — at no cost and no obligation.
Talk to an advisor 1 (844) 203 4645